In down economy, survey shows four of five South Carolinians worry about the cost of new EPA regulations on their energy bill. Candidates who oppose EPA stand to gain.

(Alexandria, Virginia) – A new survey commissioned by the non-partisan 60 Plus Association reveals a strong majority of South Carolina senior voters are concerned about the effect that sweeping new EPA regulations on power plants will have on the cost of energy and higher electricity bills. 60 Plus touts the support of 7.2 million senior supporters nationally, including more than 57,000 in the Palmetto state.

Findings of the survey show that 79% of South Carolina seniors are at least “somewhat” concerned about the potential for EPA to raise their electricity bills, with a 58% majority saying they are “extremely” or “very” concerned.

Regarding energy policy, 66% want the Obama Administration to focus on keeping energy prices low versus 23% who prefer that EPA issue new regulations to combat climate change, a finding consistent with a plurality of Democrat voters, 49% to 36%. Among Independent voters, 59% support lower prices to combating climate change.

Respondents had a message for candidates as well, with voters preferring those who oppose the EPA regulations by a solid margin of 42% to 26%. Among Independent voters, the difference was 41% to 26% in favor of candidates who don’t support new EPA regulations.

“Seniors are sending a strong message to the White House that they do not support these radical environmental proposals which will hurt the poor and our most vulnerable,” said 60 Plus Chairman Jim Martin. “Seniors, like most everyone else in the current economic climate, are struggling to get by and treading water financially. They need a lifeline, but instead they’re being thrown an anchor with these new government mandates.”

The poll surveyed 736 active South Carolina voters above the age of 55. Party affiliation breakdown of the poll is 45% GOP, 27% Democrat, and 28% Independent. The margin of error is +/- 4%.

The poll results can be found here https://www.60plus.org/files/EPA_Poll_SC.pdf

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